Rumors are swirling that South Korean automotive giant Hyundai is intensifying its interest in acquiring a Formula 1 team.
Hyundai, a formidable name in the world of rallying, is setting its sights on the ultimate motorsport challenge: Formula 1. Since debuting the i20N in 2014, Hyundai has maintained a strong presence in the FIA World Rally Championship, clinching the manufacturers’ title in both 2019 and 2020 under the leadership of ex-Renault F1 Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul.
According to F1 reporter Joe Saward, Hyundai is now eager to conquer the F1 arena by acquiring an existing team. However, no teams are currently available for purchase, at least publicly, making an immediate entry challenging. Despite this, Hyundai’s interest has garnered positive attention from Formula One Management (FOM), especially in contrast to Andretti’s less favored bid to start a new team from scratch.
A significant obstacle for Hyundai is the necessity to adopt a power unit from a rival manufacturer for a swift entry. Yet, partnerships with existing OEMs are not unprecedented in F1, as demonstrated by collaborations like Honda with Aston Martin. Thus, forming a similar alliance could smooth Hyundai’s path into the sport.
From FOM’s perspective, attracting established automotive manufacturers like Hyundai is highly desirable. This is evident from their tailored 2026 engine regulations, which emphasize hybrid technology and have already lured Audi, convinced Honda to make a robust return, and secured Ford’s partnership with Red Bull Powertrains.
Andretti’s attempt to join the F1 grid by 2026 was delayed, with FOM suggesting reapplication once General Motors’ power unit is ready. FOM’s hesitation stemmed from the belief that Andretti would benefit more from F1 than vice versa. Hyundai, however, stands in a different position.
As the world’s fourth-largest auto manufacturer, Hyundai’s entry into F1 would not only elevate the sport’s prestige but also align with F1’s expansion ambitions in Asia. With South Korea expressing interest in hosting a Grand Prix in Incheon, Hyundai’s timing could be perfect. The last time South Korea was on the F1 calendar (2010-2013), Hyundai considered an entry until a bribery scandal derailed those plans.
Should Incheon’s bid for a South Korean GP succeed, it could pave the way for Hyundai to join the F1 grid, adding another automotive titan to the sport. The potential return of a South Korean Grand Prix, coupled with Hyundai’s F1 ambitions, promises an exciting future for both the automaker and Formula 1 fans worldwide.
